Patterson, Peterson Named Associated Press All-Pros

The Vikings two offensive stars from 2013 were both recognized today by the Associated Press, as Cordarrelle Patterson was named a First Team All-Pro, while Adrian Peterson was named as a Second Team All-Pro.

Patterson, who was the 29th overall pick in last April’s draft, led the NFL in kick return average at 32.4 which was the third highest average in the NFL since the 1970 merger. He also broke the Vikings’ team-record with 1,393 kick return yards in a single-season which was previously was held by Buster Rhymes from the 1985 season. Patterson also became the first wide receiver in team history with three rushing scores in a single-season, and his 50-yard touchdown run versus Detroit in week 17 was the longest scoring run by a wide receiver in team history. He wrapped up his rookie season with nine total touchdowns (four receiving, three rushing and two kick return scores).

Even though Peterson’s numbers were down from his record-breaking 2012 season where he came up just a few years shy of the NFL’s single-season rushing record. This season, Peterson battled injuries for the vast majority of the year but still managed to finish fifth in the NFL in rushing with 1,266 yards, and was second in yards per game at 90.4. His ten rushing touchdowns were good for fourth in the NFL.

Both Peterson and Patterson will also represent the Vikings in Hawaii at the 2014 Pro Bowl later this month.